Multi-camera multi-position adapter

ABSTRACT

A view camera system that uses an adjustable adapter assembly to attach a relatively-inexpensive film camera body or digital camera sensor to the view camera. The adapter assembly includes a C-shaped support arc and an L-shaped cantilevered camera mount that is removably attached to the arc. The camera mount can be attached to the support arc at three orientations: portrait, 45° tilt, or landscape. A digital camera body can be attached to the camera mount with a thumb screw. The view camera system can have dual, 5-axis movements that allow for tilt, swing, rise and fall, shift, and micro-focus adjustments.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

None

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not Applicable

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This invention pertains to the field of photography, and to methods andstructures for adjustably mounting different digital camera bodies toview camera systems in different orientations using a multi-position,adjustable camera adapter.

Description of Related Art

Two US patents describe related patent art. These are: “AdjustableCamera Mounting Device”, U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,544 by Michael Muzila; and“Camera Support”, U.S. Pat. No. 4,693,575 by James H. Keller. The '544patent by Muzila discloses an adjustable camera mounting device orbracket, including a base member having a curved recess portion whichreceives a camera mounting member having a complementary curvedconfiguration. A spring-biased pressure member and oppositely positionedguide members are mounted within the curved recess portion of the basemember and are received within a complementary groove in the cameramounting member, permitting the camera mounting member to becontinuously rotatably movable within the base member. The '575 patentby Keller discloses a camera support of holder for a hand-held camerathat has an arcuate member that is held in a user's palm. The “palmring” is attached to the standard threaded recess in the camera that isnormally used for attaching a tripod to the camera.

Neither patent discloses or teaches structures for rigidly (but,adjustably) mounting a camera body (which can be digital or film) to alarge-format view camera system, such as the “Horseman-L 4×5” cameramade by the Komamura company in Japan. A traditional view camera systemis a large format camera in which the lens forms an inverted image on aground glass screen directly at the plane of the film. The image viewedis exactly the same as the image on the film, which replaces the viewingscreen during exposure. This type of camera was first developed in theera of the daguerreotype (1840s-1850s) and is still in use today, thoughwith many refinements. It comprises a flexible bellows that forms alight-tight seal between two adjustable standards, one of which holds alens, and the other a viewfinder or a photographic film holder. Thebellows is a flexible, accordion-pleated box. It encloses the spacebetween the lens and film, and flexes to accommodate the movements ofthe standards.

In a traditional view camera system, the front standard comprises aboard at the front of the camera that holds the lens and, usually, ashutter or lens cap. At the other end of the bellows, the rear standardcomprises a frame that holds a ground glass plate, which is used forfocusing and composing the image before exposure, which is replaced by aholder containing the light-sensitive film, plate, or image sensor forexposure. The front and rear standards can move in various ways relativeto each other, unlike most other camera types. These movements providecontrol over focus, depth of field, and perspective. The camera isusually used on a tripod or other support. A monorail camera is the mostcommon type of studio view camera, with front and rear standards mountedto a single guide rail that is fixed to a camera support (e.g., tripod).This design gives the greatest range of movements and flexibility, withboth front and rear standards able to tilt, shift, rise, fall, and swingin similar proportion.

Photographers use view camera systems to control focus and convergenceof parallel lines. Image control is done by moving the front and/or rearstandards. Rise-and-fall are the movements of either the front or rearstandard vertically along a line in a plane parallel to the film (orsensor) plane. Moving the front standard left or right from its normalposition is called lens shift, or simply shift. This movement is similarto rise-and-fall, but moves the image horizontally rather thanvertically. The axis of the lens is normally perpendicular to the film(or sensor). Changing the angle between axis and film by tilting thelens standard backwards or forwards is called lens tilt, or just tilt.Tilt is especially useful in landscape photography. By using theScheimpflug principle, the “plane of sharp focus” can be changed so thatany plane can be brought into sharp focus. Altering the angle of thelens standard in relation to the film plane by swiveling it from side toside is called swing. Swing is like tilt, but it changes the angle ofthe focal plane in the horizontal axis instead of the vertical axis. Forexample, swing can help achieve sharp focus along the entire length of apicket fence that is not parallel to the film plane. Specialized digitalcamera backs exist for large-format view cameras, but these are veryexpensive due to the large sensor size. What is needed, then, is amethod and structure to attach relatively-inexpensive digital camerabodies (e.g., 35 mm DSLR cameras) to traditional large-format viewcamera systems in a variety of orientations. Against this background,the present invention was developed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a variety of view camera systems,including some antique wooden cameras, which use an adjustable adapterassembly to attach a relatively-inexpensive film camera body or digitalcamera sensor to the view camera. The adapter assembly includes aC-shaped support arc, and an L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount that isremovably attached to the arc. The camera mount can be attached to thesupport arc at three orientations: portrait, 45° tilt, or landscape. Adigital camera body can be attached to the camera mount with a thumbscrew. The view camera system can have dual, 5-axis movements that allowfor tilt, swing, rise and fall, shift, and micro-focus adjustments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

FIG. 1 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of amulti-position camera adapter 8 and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 2A shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 2B shows an elevation side view of the first embodiment of aC-shaped support arc 16, according to the present invention.

FIG. 3A shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of acantilevered camera mount 14 and removable camera body 10, according tothe present invention.

FIG. 3B shows an elevation rear view of a second embodiment of acantilevered camera mount 14 and removable camera body 10, according tothe present invention.

FIG. 4A shows an elevation rear view of the first embodiment of amulti-position camera adapter 8 and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 4B shows an elevation rear view of the first embodiment of amulti-position camera adapter 8 and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a camerasystem 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and removablecamera body 10 oriented parallel to the Y-axis (portrait mode), that isrotatably and slidably attached to an adjustable rear L-frame, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a camerasystem 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and removablecamera body 10 oriented at 45° to the horizontal X-axis, that isrotatably and slidably attached to an upright standard of an adjustablerear L-frame, according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a camerasystem 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and removablecamera body 10 oriented parallel to the horizontal X-axis (landscapemode), that is rotatably and slidably attached to an upright standard 30of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows an elevation rear view of a second embodiment of a camerasystem 6′ comprising a second embodiment of a multi-position cameraadapter 8′ and removable camera body 10 oriented parallel to the Y-axis(portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidably attached to an uprightstandard 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 shows an elevation rear view of a third embodiment of a camerasystem 6″ comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and removablecamera body 10 oriented parallel to the Y-axis (portrait mode), that isattached directly to an upright standard 30 of an adjustable rearL-frame 34, according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows an isometric exploded perspective view of a camera system6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and removable camera body10 oriented parallel to the Y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatablyand slidably attached to an upright standard 30 of an adjustable rearL-frame 34, according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows an isometric perspective rear view of the first embodimentof a C-shaped support arc 16, according to the present invention.

FIG. 12A shows an isometric perspective rear view of the firstembodiment of a cantilevered camera mount 14, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 12B shows an isometric perspective rear view of another embodimentof a cantilevered camera mount 14, according to the present invention.

FIG. 13A shows a plan view of the first embodiment of a cantileveredcamera mount 14, according to the present invention.

FIG. 13B shows a plan cross-section view of the top end of acantilevered camera mount 14 attached to a semi-circular support arc 16,according to the present invention.

FIG. 13C shows a plan view of the top end of a cantilevered camera mount14 attached to a semi-circular support arc 16, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 14 shows an isometric rear perspective view of a view camera system4 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and attached camera body10 oriented parallel to the Y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatablyand slidably attached to an upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustablerear L-frame 34, including an adjustable front L-frame 34′, according tothe present invention.

FIG. 15 shows a side elevation view of a view camera system 4 comprisinga multi-position camera adapter and removable camera body 10 orientedparallel to the Y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidablyattached to an upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame34, with an adjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable andpositionable lens board 70 and front lens 72, wherein both front andrear L-frames 34′ and 34, respectively, are adjustably attached to ahorizontal guide rail 38, according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a photograph showing an isometric perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position cameraadapter 8 and DSLR camera body 10 oriented parallel to the Y-axis(portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidably attached to an uprightarm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, with an adjustablefront L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable and positionable lens board 70and front lens 72, wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34,respectively, are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a photograph showing a rear elevation perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter 8 and Sony-brand DSLR camera body 10 (Sony α7II) orientedparallel to the y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidablyattached to an upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame34, with an adjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable andpositionable lens board 70 and front lens 72 and shutter 110 (or lenscap, not shown), wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34,respectively, are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a photograph showing a side elevation perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter 8 and Sony-brand DSLR camera body 10 oriented parallel tothe y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidably attached toan upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, with anadjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable and positionable lensboard 70 and front lens 72 and shutter 110, wherein both front and rearL-frames 34′ and 34, respectively, are adjustably attached to ahorizontal guide rail 38, according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a photograph showing a front elevation perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising an adjustable front L-frame34′ comprising a tiltable and positionable lens board 70 and front lens72 and shutter 110, wherein both front L-frames 34′ is adjustablyattached to a horizontal guide rail 38, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 20 is a photograph showing a rear isometric perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising an adjustable rear L-frame 34and multi-position camera adapter 8, according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a photograph showing an exploded, isometric perspective viewof a prototype adjustable camera adapter 8 comprising a multi-positionsupport arc 16 and a positionable camera mount 14, according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 22 is a photograph showing a rear isometric perspective view of a50 mm lens 72 mounted in a lens board 70, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 is a photograph showing a front isometric perspective view of a50 mm lens 72 mounted in a lens board 70, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 is a photograph showing a front isometric perspective view of a35 mm lens 72 mounted in a lens board 70, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 25 is a photograph showing an isometric rear perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position cameraadapter 8 and DSLR camera body 10 oriented 45° to the Y-axis (45° tiltmode), that is rotatably and slidably attached to an upright arm(standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, with an adjustable frontL-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable and positionable lens board 70 andfront lens 72, wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34,respectively, are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 27 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 28 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 29 shows an isometric perspective rear view of another embodimentof a C-shaped support arc 16, according to the present invention.

FIG. 30 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 31 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 32 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 33 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 34 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 35 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 36 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 37 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 38 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 39A shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of aC-shaped support arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention.

FIG. 39B shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of aC-shaped support arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention.

FIG. 40 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 41 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 42A shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8and removable camera body 10 oriented at γ=56° to the horizontal x-axis(i.e., maximum-vertical mode), according to the present invention.

FIG. 42B shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8oriented at γ=56° to the horizontal x-axis (i.e., maximum-verticalmode), according to the present invention.

FIG. 42C shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6, according to the present invention.

FIG. 43A shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8and removable camera body 10 oriented at γ=34° to the horizontal x-axis(i.e., maximum-horizontal mode), according to the present invention.

FIG. 43B shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8oriented at γ=34° to the horizontal x-axis (i.e., maximum-horizontalmode), according to the present invention.

FIG. 43C shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6, according to the present invention.

FIG. 44 shows an elevation side perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention.

FIG. 45 shows an elevation rear perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention.

FIG. 46 shows an elevation side perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention.

FIG. 47 shows an elevation rear perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention.

FIG. 48 shows a front elevation perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 2, according to the present invention.

FIG. 49 shows a rear elevation perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 2, according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1-49 show examples of various embodiments of the presentinvention. The present invention relates to a view camera system thatuses an adjustable adapter assembly to attach a relatively-inexpensivecamera body with a digital sensor (or film) to a rigid part of the viewcamera's structure. The adjustable adapter assembly includes a C-shapedsupport arc and an L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount that is removablyattached to the support arc. The camera mount can be attached to thesupport arc at multiple, different positions, e.g., corresponding toportrait, 45° tilted, or landscape orientations. A film or digitalcamera body can be attached to the camera mount using a standardizedthumb screw. The multi-camera, multi-position camera adapter of thepresent invention can be used with medium-format, large-format, orpanoramic view camera systems.

The camera bodies used in this invention can be either traditional filmor digital cameras, and they can have a range of sensor sizes; rangingfrom: micro four/thirds, APC, full-frame (35 mm), 4″×5″, 5″×7″, 8″×10″format, or even larger formats (including extra-wide or ultra-widepanoramic formats). A view camera system can comprise: a rear filmplane, a front lens plane, an extension bellows disposed between the twoplanes, and a front lens board with a front lens and optional shutter(or lens cap). The camera body can be used without a directly-mountedlens (in which case the camera body is simply acting as alight-gathering sensor or film). Preferably, a full frame (35 mm sensorsize) Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera body is used.Alternatively, the DSLR camera body can have a medium-sized sensor,e.g., 44 mm×33 mm. In other embodiments, the camera body can be replacedwith just a sensor chip (e.g., CCD chip) inside a much smallerenclosure. Note also that wherever a machine bolt (screw) is mounted ina threaded hole to join two parts together, that an alternateconstruction can be used that comprises an unthreaded through-hole and anut threaded on the far side of the machine bolt (screw). Note also thatthe use of the words “standard” or “upright standard” are synonymouswith an upright vertical arm of an L-frame of a view camera system.

FIG. 1 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of amulti-position adjustable camera adapter 8 and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention. Camera adapter 8 comprises twomating parts that are attached together with a pair of machine screws(not shown, which can be a pair of cap-head machine bolts). The twomating parts include: (1) a C-shaped support arc 16, and (2) a L-shaped,cantilevered camera mount 14. Note that camera body 10 is illustratedherein with dashed lines, indicating that the camera body itself is notan essential or required part of some embodiments of the invention.Camera body 10 comprises a multi-pixel sensor chip 12, which has acentral point labelled “S”. Camera body 10 also can comprise an optionalviewfinder prism 11. Camera body 10 can also comprise a live digitaldisplay (not shown) located on its backside. Camera mount 14 comprises acurved (semi-circular) outer portion 104 with radius=R_(b), and a pairof unthreaded through-holes 54, 54′ (not shown) that are spaced apart adistance=b. Mount 14 further comprises an inner curved side portion withradius=R_(s) (see FIG. 3A). Mount 14 further comprises a cantileveredportion 15 that has an unthreaded through-hole 17, which isappropriately sized to hold a standardized tripod thumb screw 18 (e.g.,¼-20 screw size) that screws into a standardized tripod threaded hole 19in the base of camera body 10, for the purpose of rigidly attachingcamera body 10 to cantilevered base 15 of mount 14.

Referring still to FIG. 1, support arc 16 can be a semi-circular arc,with an outer radius=R_(o) and an inner radius=R_(i), where R_(i)<R_(o).Note that: R_(i)<R_(b)<R_(o). In this view, support arc 16 is a sectorof a circle, having a sector central angle, β, which is less than 180°,but is greater than 90°. In this example, the sector angle β=134°.Support arc 16 comprises three pairs of threaded holes: 22, 22′; 24,24′; and 26, 26′, which are oriented perpendicular to the rear face 94of arc 16. Each pair of threaded holes is spaced apart circumferentiallyat a same distance=b. The three pairs of threaded holes: 22, 22′; 24,24′; and 26, 26′, can be located radially offset a small distance awayfrom a centerline circumference (not shown) of arc 16 (i.e., holes 22,22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′ can be located closer to the inner surface 96at R_(i)). These three pairs of mounting holes allow the camera mount 14to be optionally mounted in one of three different (i.e., multiple)positions, corresponding to three different camera orientations(portrait, 45° tilted, and landscape). The other angle, a, defining theradial centerlines of each pair of through-holes (22, 22′; 24, 24′; and26, 26′) can be positioned at +/−45°; indicating that support arc 16 issymmetric about a horizontal line (x-axis) that bisects the arc. Supportarc 16 further comprises a vertical flat portion 20 centered at thehorizontal line that bisects arc 16, which has a height=a, where a>b.Note that the upper right-hand corner of support arc 16, labelled “B” inFIG. 1, is located a vertical distance=d above the uppermost edge ofcamera body 10. In some embodiments, d≥(R_(o)−R_(i)). In general,support arc 16 and camera mount 14 can be made of magnesium, or aluminumor aluminum alloy, or steel, or another dense metal or alloy, which canbe anodized black or painted black. Attachment screws/bolts can also bemade of steel, or magnesium, or aluminum or aluminum alloy, all of whichcan be anodized black or painted black. In the example shown in FIG. 1:a=55 mm; b=36 mm; c=62 mm; R_(o)=90 mm; R_(i)=77 mm; R_(h)=81 mm; β=134°and α=45°.

FIG. 2A shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. Support arc 16 has an outer radius=R_(o), and an innerradius=R_(i), where R_(i)<R_(o). In this view, support arc 16 is asector of a circle, having a sector angle, β, which is less than 180°,but is greater than 90°. In this example, β=130°. Support arc 16comprises three pairs of threaded holes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′,which are oriented perpendicular to the rear face 94 of arc 16, and arepositioned radially at a same radius=R_(h) from the geometric center, S,of the sensor chip 12. These threaded mounting holes allows the cameramount 14 to be optionally mounted in one of three different (multiple)positions, corresponding to three different camera orientations(portrait, 45° tilted, and landscape). The angle, α, defining the radialcenterlines of each pair of through-holes (22, 22′; 24, 24′, and 26,26′) can be +/−45°. Support arc 16 further comprises a vertical flatportion 20 centered at the horizontal line along the x-axis that bisectsarc 16, which has a height=a, where a>b. Support arc 16 furthercomprises four, parallel, horizontal through-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and21′″ (which are all unthreaded), and which are oriented substantiallyperpendicular to inside face 97 of arc 16. Through-holes 21, 21′, 21″,and 21′″ allow support arc 16 to be securely mounted onto a rigidsupport structure of a view camera system (not shown). Note that theupper right-hand corner of support arc 16, labelled “B” in FIG. 2A, islocated a vertical distance=d above the uppermost edge of camera body10. In some embodiments, d≥(R_(o)−R_(i)). The length of inner radius R;is greater than the diagonal dimension “c” of camera body 10 (i.e.,R_(i)>c). In some embodiments, R_(h)≥c+18, where R_(h) and c aremeasured in mm.

FIG. 2B shows an elevation side view of the first embodiment of aC-shaped, support arc 16, according to the present invention. Supportarc 16 further comprises four, parallel, horizontal through-holes 21,21′, 21″, and 21′″ (which are all unthreaded), and which are orientedperpendicular to inside face 96 of arc 16. Through-holes 21, 21′, 21″,and 21′″ allow support arc 16 to be securely mounted onto a rigidsupport structure of a view camera system (not shown). Two of the holes21′ and 21″ can be located offset on the left-hand side of arc 16, whilethe other two holes 21 and 21′″ can be located offset on the right-handside of arc 16. Other numbers of through-holes can be used for theplurality of holes, for example, two or three holes, instead of four (asin the present example). Support arc 16 further comprises three pairs ofthreaded holes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′, which are orientedsubstantially perpendicular to the rear face 94 of arc 16. These threepairs of threaded mounting holes allow camera mount 14 to be optionallyattached in one of three different (multiple) positions, correspondingto three different camera orientations (i.e., portrait, 45° tilted,and/or landscape). Note that through-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21′″ canoptionally be countersunk on the inner surface 96. Threaded holes 22,22′, 24, 24′, 26, and 26′ can penetrate completely through thethickness, t, of arc 16 (i.e., from the rear side 94 to the front side98 of arc 16). Alternatively, threaded holes 22, 22′, 24, 24′, 26, and26′ can partially penetrate into the thickness, t, of arc 16 (e.g., 50%to 75% deep), (not shown).

FIG. 3A shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of anL-shaped, cantilevered camera mount 14 and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention. Camera mount 14 comprises a curved(semi-circular) outer portion 104 with radius=R_(b), and a pair ofunthreaded through-holes 54, 54′ that are spaced apart a circumferentialdistance=b. In some embodiments, R_(b)>c, where c=diagonal distance ofcamera body 10. Mount 14 further comprises an inner curved side portion105 with a smaller radius=R_(s) (i.e., R_(s)<R_(b)). R_(s) can, forexample, range from ⅓ to ¼ times R_(b). Mount 14 further comprises acantilevered extension portion/base 15 that has an unthreadedthrough-hole 17, which is sized appropriately to receive a standardizedthumb screw 18, and which screws into standardized, threaded tripod hole19 in the base of camera body 10 for the purpose of rigidly attachingcamera body 10 to cantilevered base portion 15 of mount 14.

FIG. 3B shows an elevation rear view of a second embodiment of anL-shaped, cantilevered camera mount 14 and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention. Camera mount 14 comprises a curved(semi-circular) outer portion 104 with radius=R_(b), and a pair ofunthreaded through-holes 54, 54′ that are spaced apart a circumferentialdistance=b, and are radially positioned at the same radius=R_(h) fromthe geometric center, S, of the sensor chip 12 as the radius R_(h) ofthe three pairs of threaded holes 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′ in arc16. In some embodiments, R_(b)>c, where c=diagonal distance of camerabody 10. Mount 14 further comprises an inner curved side portion 105with smaller radius=R_(s). R_(s) can range from ¼ to ⅙ times R_(b).Mount 14 further comprises a horizontal, straight-line segment 107 thatjoins to semi-circular segment 105. Mount 14 further comprises acantilevered extension base portion 15 that has an unthreadedthrough-hole 17, which is sized appropriately to receive a standardized,tripod thumb screw 18, and which screws into threaded tripod hole 19 inthe base of camera body 10 for the purpose of rigidly attaching camerabody 10 to cantilevered base portion 15 of mount 14.

FIG. 4A shows an elevation rear view of the first embodiment of amulti-position camera adapter 8 and removable camera body 10 mounted ina portrait orientation, according to the present invention. Radial gapdimension “e” is shown, which is defined by the following equation:e=R_(o)−R_(b). This gap, e, which can range from 3-5 mm, is needed toprevent interference of the outer circular arc portion 104 of cameramount 14 with a vertical adjustment cylinder 28 (not shown) when themount 14 is attached at 45° tilted to the horizontal x-axis (see, e.g.,FIG. 6). Support arc 16 further comprises three pairs of threaded holes:22, 22′; and 24, 24′; and 26, 26′, which are oriented substantiallyperpendicular to the rear face 94 of arc 16. These pairs of threadedmounting holes allow the camera mount 14 to be optionally attached inone of three different (multiple) positions, corresponding to threedifferent camera orientations (i.e., portrait, 45° tilted, and/orlandscape). The circumferential distance between each pair of the threepairs of threaded holes is the same, and is equal to b. Thecircumferential distance between adjacent holes (e.g., holes 24 and 22′;or 26 and 24′) is also the same, and is equal to g, where g<b, as can beseen in FIG. 4A. In this example: a=55 mm, b=36 mm, c=62 mm, g=27 mm,h=15 mm, and the ratio g/b=0.75. Also, R; =77 mm, R_(h)=81 mm, andR_(o)=90 mm.

FIG. 4B shows an elevation rear view of the first embodiment of amulti-position camera adapter 8 and removable camera body 10 mounted ina portrait orientation, according to the present invention. The threepairs of threaded holes 22, 22′; and 24, 24′; and 26, 26′ in arc 16 arecircumferentially positioned at a same interior circumferential angularspacing, θ. In this example, θ=26°. The adjacent circumferential angularspacing, ϕ, defined as the adjacent circumferential angle disposedin-between adjacent pairs of holes (e.g., holes 24 and 22′; or holes 26and 24′) is less than the interior circumferential angular spacing, θ,inside of each pair of holes. In other words, ϕ<θ. In this example,ϕ=19° and θ=26°, and the ratio of angles ϕ/θ=0.75 (which is the same asthe ratio of circumferential distances g/b=0.75 discussed above). Inthis example, the sector central angle, β=136°, and the circumferentialangular offset of the first hole (22), ψ=10°. Note that θ+ϕ=45° (whichis a general requirement). Note: the angles are measured in degrees.

FIG. 5 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 andremovable camera body 10 oriented parallel to the y-axis, γ=90°, (i.e.,portrait mode), according to the present invention. Camera adapter 8 isrotatably and slidably attached to an upright rear arm (standard) 30 ofa positionable rear L-frame 34 via movable, vertical adjustment cylinder28 (which can rotate around the x-axis when upper thumb screw 36 isloosened). Likewise, vertical adjustment cylinder 28 can move up/downwhen the lower thumb screw 37 is loosened via a connected plate (notshown). Support arc 16 is securely attached to vertical adjustmentcylinder 28 via four parallel, horizontal machine bolts 40, 40′, 40″,and 40′″. Horizontal arm 32 of L-frame 34 is adjustable left/right alongthe x-axis, and in/out along the z-axis by sliding along the length ofguide rail 38. Horizontal arm 32 of L-frame 34 is also rotatable aroundthe y-axis using horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74, which is rotatablyand slidably attached to guide rail 38. Tripod mount 120 is attached tothe bottom of guide rail 38.

FIG. 6 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 andremovable camera body 10 oriented at γ=45° to the horizontal x-axis(i.e., 45° tilt mode), according to the present invention. Cameraadapter 8 is rotatably and slidably attached to an upright rear standard30 of a positionable rear L-frame 34 via movable vertical adjustmentcylinder 28 (which can rotate around the x-axis when upper thumb screw36 is loosened). Likewise, vertical adjustment cylinder 28 can moveup/down when the lower thumb screw 37 is loosened. Support arc 16 issecurely attached to vertical adjustment cylinder 28 via four parallelmachine bolts 40, 40′, 40″, and 40′″ (not shown). Horizontal arm 32 ofL-frame 34 is adjustable and can be translated left/right along thex-axis, and in/out along the z-axis along the length of guide rail 38.Horizontal arm 32 of L-frame 34 is also rotatable around the y-axisusing horizontal adjustment cylinder 74, which is rotatably and slidablyattached to guide rail 38. Tripod mount 120 is attached to the bottom ofguide rail 38.

FIG. 7 shows an elevation rear view of a first embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 andremovable camera body 10 oriented parallel to the horizontal x-axis,γ=0°, (i.e., landscape mode), according to the present invention. Cameraadapter 8 is rotatably and slidably attached to an upright rear arm(standard) 30 of a positionable rear L-frame 34 via movable, verticaladjustment cylinder 28 (which can rotate around the x-axis when upperthumb screw 36 is loosened). Likewise, vertical adjustment cylinder 28can move up/down when the lower thumb screw 37 is loosened. Support arc16 is securely attached to vertical adjustment cylinder 28 via fourparallel machine bolts 40, 40′, 40″, and 40′″. Horizontal arm 32 ofL-frame 34 is adjustable left/right along the x-axis, and in/out alongthe z-axis along the length of guide rail 38. Horizontal arm 32 ofL-frame 34 is also rotatable around the y-axis using horizontaladjustment cylinder 74, which is rotatably and slidably attached toguide rail 38. Tripod mount 120 is attached to the bottom of guide rail38.

FIG. 8 shows an elevation rear view of a second embodiment of a viewcamera system 6′ comprising a second embodiment of a multi-positioncamera adapter 8′ and removable camera body 10 oriented parallel to they-axis (i.e., portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidably attached toan upright rear arm (standard) 30 of a positionable rear L-frame 34,according to the present invention. Camera adapter 8 is rotatably andslidably attached to an upright arm (standard) 30 of a positionable rearL-frame 34 via movable, vertical adjustment cylinder 28 (which canrotate around the x-axis when upper thumb screw 36 is loosened).Likewise, vertical adjustment cylinder 28 can move up/down when thelower thumb screw 37 is loosened. Support plate 42 has a pair of squareouter corners 44 and 44′, and a semi-circular inner arc 43 withradius=R_(i). Camera mount 14 can be bolted to support plate 42 at threedifferent optional positions (multi-position), depending on the desiredangle of orientation, γ. Horizontal arm 32 of L-frame 34 is alsorotatable around the y-axis using horizontal adjustment cylinder 74,which is rotatably and slidably attached to guide rail 38. All threeoptional camera orientations are available in this second embodiment.Tripod mount 120 is attached to the bottom of guide rail 38.

FIG. 9 shows an elevation rear view of a third embodiment of a camerasystem 6″ comprising a multi-position camera adapter 8 and removablecamera body 10 oriented parallel to the y-axis (i.e., portrait mode),that is attached directly to an upright rear arm (standard) 30 of apositionable rear L-frame 34, according to the present invention. Inthis third embodiment, vertical adjustment cylinder 28 has been removed,and support arc 16 is directly attached to vertical rear arm 30. Thisparticular embodiment can be used, for example, with older view camerasthat have frames made of wood that do not tilt (e.g., Burke & James).Horizontal arm 32 of L-frame 34 is also rotatable around the y-axisusing horizontal adjustment cylinder 74, which is rotatably and slidablyattached to guide rail 38. All three optional camera orientations areavailable to be used in this embodiment. Tripod mount 120 is attached tothe bottom of guide rail 38.

FIG. 10 shows an isometric, exploded perspective rear view of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8and removable camera body 10 oriented parallel to the vertical y-axis(i.e., portrait mode), according to the present invention. Cameraadapter 8 is rotatably and slidably attached to an upright rear arm(standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34. Camera adapter 8comprises two mating parts that are attached together with a pair ofcap-head machine bolts 64, 64′. The two mating parts include: aC-shaped, support arc 16; and a L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount 14.Note that camera body 10 is illustrated with dashed lines, indicatingthat the camera itself is not a required part of this embodiment of theinvention. Camera body 10 comprises a multi-pixel sensor chip 12, whichhas a central point “S”. Camera body 10 also can comprise an optionalviewfinder prism 11. Camera body 10 can also comprise a live, digitaldisplay screen 13 located on its backside. The L-shaped, cantileveredcamera mount 14 comprises a curved (semi-circular) outer portion 104,and a pair of unthreaded through-holes 54, 54′. Mount 14 furthercomprises an inner, curved side portion 105 (which, optionally, can be astraight-line segment). Mount 14 further comprises a cantileveredextension base portion 15 that has an unthreaded through-hole 17, whichis appropriately sized to receive a tripod thumb screw 18 that screwsinto threaded tripod hole 19 in the base of camera body 10, for thepurpose of rigidly attaching camera body 10 to cantilevered portion 15of mount 14.

Referring still to FIG. 10, camera adapter 8 further comprises aC-shaped support arc 16. In this view, support arc 16 is a sector of acircle, having a sector central angle, β, which is less than 180°, butis greater than 90°. Support arc 16 comprises three pairs of threadedholes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′, which are oriented substantiallyperpendicular to the rear face 94 of arc 16. These mounting holes allowsthe camera mount 14 to be optionally mounted in one of three different(multiple) positions, corresponding to three different cameraorientations (portrait, 45° tilted, and landscape). Support arc 16further comprises a vertical flat portion 20 centered at the horizontalline that bisects arc 16. The flat vertical portion 20 comprises fourthrough-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21″ that hold four cap-head bolts 40,40′, 40″, and 40′″, that are received by threaded holes 92, 92′, 92″,92″, respectively, in vertical adjustment cylinder 28. Verticaladjustment cylinder 28 can move up/down on recessed groove/track 102 (orrotate about the x-axis), when thumb screws 36 and/or 37 are loosened,respectively. These adjustments thereby provide a 5-axis motioncapability (X, Y, and Z translations, and 2 rotations) for camera body10, thereby generating five traditional view camera adjustments(movements), including: tilt, swing, rise-and-fall, shift, andmicro-focus of the rear plane.

FIG. 11 shows an isometric perspective rear view of the first embodimentof a C-shaped support arc 16, according to the present invention.Support arc 16 is a sector of a circle, having a sector central angle,β, which is less than 180°, but is greater than 90°. Support arc 16comprises three pairs of threaded holes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′,which are oriented substantially perpendicular to the rear face 94 ofarc 16 These mounting holes allows a camera mount 14 (not shown) to beoptionally mounted in one of three different multiple positions,corresponding to three different camera orientations (portrait, 45°tilted, and landscape). Support arc 16 further comprises a vertical flatportion 20 centered at a horizontal line along the x-axis that bisectsarc 16. The flat portion 20 defines four, parallel, horizontalthrough-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21″ (which are oriented substantiallyperpendicular to inner diameter surface 96 of arc 16) for holding fourcap-head bolts 40, 40′, 40″, and 40′″ (not shown), that are received bythreaded holes 92, 92′, 92″, 92′″ (not shown), respectively, inadjustment cylinder 28 (not shown).

FIG. 12A shows an isometric perspective rear view of the firstembodiment of a L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount 14, according to thepresent invention. Camera mount 14 comprises a curved (semi-circular)outer portion 104 with radius=R_(b) (not shown), and a pair ofunthreaded through-holes 54, 54′ that are spaced apart a distance=b. Thecenterlines of holes 54 and 54′ are aligned with the z-axis. Mount 14further comprises an inner curved side portion 105 with a smallerradius=R_(s). Mount 14 further comprises a cantilevered extension/baseportion 15 that has an unthreaded through-hole 17, which isappropriately sized to hold a thumb screw 18 (not shown) that screwsinto standardized, threaded tripod hole 19 in the base of camera body 10(not shown) for the purpose of rigidly attaching camera body 10 tocantilevered base portion 15. Notch 55 is cut out from mount 14 (note:mount 14 was originally machined from a length of L-angle metal stock).Note also that mount 14 comprises two integral plates: a rear face plate150 and an integral base plate 152, which are disposed at right anglesto each other (i.e., at 90°). This can be also seen in FIGS. 13A and13C. Through-holes 54 and 54′ are disposed in rear plate 150, whilethrough-hole 17 for holding thumb screw 18 (not shown) is disposed incantilevered base plate 152. Camera body 10 (not shown) can be mountedto base plate 152 using through-hole 17. The proximal and distal ends ofmount 14 are indicated.

FIG. 12B shows an isometric perspective rear view of another embodimentof a L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount 14, according to the presentinvention. In this embodiment, the location of through-hole 17′ islocated offset in the z-axis direction away from the vertical centerlineof base plate 152. Alternatively, or in combination with the precedingsentence, the location of through-hole 17′ can be located offset in thevertical y-axis direction away from a horizontal centerline (notillustrated) of base plate 152. Such X- or Y-offsets can be helpful foraccommodating a camera body 10 that has a tripod screw mount 19 that isoffset some distance away from the plane or centerline of the camera'ssensor chip 12 (not shown). Also, additional holes or slots or openingsor recesses (not shown) can be custom-machined into the rear face plate150 and/or base plate 152 of camera mount 14, as needed, (in addition tohole 17) to accommodate different locations of the camera body's tripodmounting hole 17, electronic cables, doors (battery or memory card), orother items that protrude from the camera's body 10 (not shown) andmight hit or interfere with mount 14.

FIG. 13A shows a plan view of the first embodiment of a cantileveredcamera mount 14, according to the present invention. Unthreadedthrough-holes 54, 54′, and 17 are shown. Note that mount 14 comprisestwo integral plates: a rear face plate 150 and an integral base plate152, which are disposed at right angles to each other (i.e., at 90°).

FIG. 13B shows a plan cross-section view A-A of the top end of a cameramount 14 attached to a support arc 16 with a pair of cap-head bolts 64and 64′, screwed into threaded holes 22 and 22′, respectively, throughthrough-holes 54 and 54′ of mount 14, respectively, according to thepresent invention. The rear face 94 and front face 98 of arc 16 areindicated.

FIG. 13C shows a plan view of the top end of a cantilevered camera mount14 attached to a semi-circular support arc 16, according to the presentinvention. Mount 14 is attached to arc 16 with a pair of cap-head screws64 (only one screw is shown). Thumb screw 18 is shown. Mount 14 can bemachined from a stock piece of L-angle of steel or aluminum alloy.

FIG. 14 shows an isometric rear perspective view of a view camera system4 comprising a multi-camera, multi-position adapter 8 and attachedcamera body 10 oriented parallel to the y-axis (i.e., portrait mode),that is rotatably and slidably attached to an upright rear arm(standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, and including anadjustable front L-frame 34′, according to the present invention.Support arc 16 is securely mounted to rear vertical adjustment cylinder28 with four, parallel, horizontal cap-head bolts 40, 40′, 40″, and 40′″that screw into four, parallel, horizontal threaded holes 92, 92′, 92″,and 92′″ (not shown) disposed in rear vertical adjustment cylinder 28.Camera body 10 can be securely mounted to camera mount 14 with tripodthumb screw 18 (not shown in this view). The height of adapter assembly8 (and, hence, attached camera body 10) can be adjusted up and downalong the y-axis, and/or adapter 8 can be rotated about the x-axis. Anadditional set of movements (z-axis translation, x-axis translation, androtation about the y-axis) is provided by a pair of movable attachmentmechanisms (not shown) that are disposed between horizontal support arms32, 32′ and guide rail 38. Optionally, vertical pins 84 and 84′ can beused that slide in track/groove 80, which allows for rotation of arms 32and 32′ about the y-axis, as well as translation of arms 32, 32′ alongthe length of guide rail 38 in the z-direction. A front lens board,front frame, and front lens/shutter or lens cap are not shown in thisFigure. Front mounting hole 130′ in front vertical attachment cylinder28′ can be used to attach a frame (not shown) that holds a front lensboard (not shown).

FIG. 15 shows a side elevation view of a view camera system 4 comprisinga multi-position, adjustable adapter assembly 8 (not shown) and attachedcamera body 10 oriented parallel to the vertical y-axis (i.e., portraitmode), that is rotatably and slidably attached to a upright rear arm(standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, according to the presentinvention. View camera system 4 further comprises an adjustable frontL-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable and positionable lens board 70 withattached front lens 72 and optional shutter 110 (or lens cap, notshown). Both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34, respectively, areadjustably attached to a common, horizontal guide rail 38. Horizontalguide rail 38 can be attached to an adjustable tripod mounting block100, for removably mounting the guide rail 38 of camera system 4 to atripod 120. The distance between front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34,respectively, is equal to “H”, which can be decreased or increased bysliding the horizontal arms 32 and 32′ closer or further apart,respectively, along horizontal track/groove 80 in guide rail 38. Thevertical position of camera body 10 can be adjusted by moving the camerabody up or down along track 102 in rear vertical arm 30. Camera body 10can be rotated about its x-axis by rotating the camera body 10 andlocking it into place. Front lens 72 is mounted to lens board 70, whichis held by frame 79 mounted to a front vertical adjustment cylinder 28′(not shown) on front vertical arm 30′. The position and orientation oflens board 70 (with mounted front lens 72 and optional shutter 110 orlens cap (not shown)) can be adjusted about five-axes by tilting,swinging, raising or lowering, shifting, or micro-focusing the lensboard 70 using the five-axis movements of front L-frame 34′. Disposedin-between camera body 10 and lens board 70 is an adjustable, flexibleextension bellows 78 that is rotatably attached to custom-machined,rotatable, cylindrical sealing rings 82 and 82′. The proximal and distalends of bellows 78 are held in place with hose clamps 76 and 76′ onsealing rings 82 and 82′, respectively. Bellows 78, in this example, isshown in its fully extended position. Tripod mount 120 is attached tothe bottom of guide rail 38 with tripod mounting cylinder 100.

FIG. 16 is a photograph showing an isometric rear perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter assembly 8 and a Sony-brand DSLR camera body 10 (Sonyα7II) oriented parallel to the y-axis (i.e., portrait mode), that isrotatably and slidably attached to a rear upright arm (standard) 30 ofan adjustable rear L-frame 34; and with an adjustable front L-frame 34′comprising a tiltable and positionable lens board 70 and front lens 72and shutter 110 (or lens cap, not shown), wherein both front and rearL-frames 34′ and 34, respectively, are adjustably attached to a commonhorizontal guide rail 38, according to the present invention. Front lens72 is mounted to lens board 70, which is held by square frame 79 byfront vertical attachment cylinder 28′ on front vertical arm 30′ offront L-frame 34′. The position and orientation of lens board 70 (withmounted front lens 72) can be adjusted by tilting, swinging, raising orlowering, shifting, or micro-focusing the lens board 70 using thefive-axis movements of front L-frame 34′. Disposed in-between camerabody 10 and lens board 70 is an adjustable, flexible extension bellows78 that is rotatably attached to custom-machined, rotatable sealingrings 82 and 82′ (not shown). The proximal and distal ends of bellows 78are held in place with hose clamps 76 and 76′ on sealing rings 82 and82′, respectively. Bellows 78, in this example, is shown is its fullycollapsed position. The bottom of rear L-frame 34 is attached torotatable and slidable horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74, which isattached to horizontal guide rail 38 (and, likewise, for the frontL-frame 34′). Guide rail 38 is attached to tripod 120 (which affordsadditional degrees of rotation and movements).

FIG. 17 is a photograph showing a rear elevation perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter 8 and Sony-brand DSLR camera body 10 (Sony α7II) orientedparallel to the y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidablyattached to a rear vertical arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rearL-frame 34, and with an adjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising atiltable and positionable lens board 70 and front lens 72 and shutter110 (or lens cap, not shown), wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′and 34, respectively, are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail38, according to the present invention. Front lens 72 is mounted to lensboard 70, which is held by square frame 79 held in front L-frame 34′.Tightening thumb screw 36 secures the angular position of rear verticaladjustment cylinder 28; and tightening thumb screw 37 secures thevertical position of rear vertical adjustment cylinder 28. The positionand orientation of lens board 70 (with mounted front lens 72) can beadjusted by tilting, swinging, raising or lowering, shifting, ormicro-focusing the lens board 70 using any combination of the five-axismovements of front L-frame 34′. Disposed in-between camera body 10 andlens board 70 is an adjustable, flexible extension bellows 78 (notshown) that is rotatably attached to custom-machined, rotatable sealingrings 82 and 82′ (not shown). The proximal and distal ends of bellows 78are held in place with hose clamps 76 and 76′ on sealing rings 82 and82′, respectively. The bottom of rear L-frame 34 is attached torotatable and slidable horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74, which isattached to horizontal guide rail 38 (and, likewise, for the frontL-frame 34′).

FIG. 18 is a photograph showing a side elevation perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter 8 and Sony-brand DSLR camera body 10 (Sony α7II) orientedparallel to the y-axis (portrait mode), that is rotatably and slidablyattached to an upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame34, with an adjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable andpositionable lens board 70 and front lens 72 and shutter 110 or lens cap(not shown), wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34,respectively, are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,according to the present invention. Front lens 72 is mounted to lensboard 70, which is held by square frame 79 in front L-frame 34′.Tightening rear upper thumb screw 36 secures the angular position of therear vertical adjustment cylinder 28; and tightening lower thumb screw37 secures the vertical position of the rear vertical adjustmentcylinder 28 (and, likewise, for the front L-frame 34′). The position andorientation of lens board 70 (with mounted front lens 72) can beadjusted by tilting, swinging, raising or lowering, shifting, ormicro-focusing the lens board 70 using any combination of the five-axismovements of front L-frame 34′. Disposed in-between camera body 10 andlens board 70 is an adjustable, flexible extension bellows 78 that isrotatably attached to custom-machined, rotatable sealing rings 82 and82′ (not shown). The proximal and distal ends of bellows 78 are held inplace with hose clamps 76 and 76′ on sealing rings 82 and 82′,respectively. The bottom of rear L-frame 34 is attached to rotatable andslidable horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74, which is attached tohorizontal guide rail 38 (and, likewise, for the front L-frame 34′).Guide rail 38 is attached to tripod 120 (which affords additionaldegrees of rotation and movements).

FIG. 19 is a photograph showing a front elevation perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising an adjustable front L-frame34′ comprising a tiltable and positionable lens board 70 and front lens72 and shutter 110 (or lens cap, not shown), wherein both front L-frames34′ is adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38, according tothe present invention. Front lens 72 is mounted to lens board 70, whichis held by square frame 79 in front L-frame 34′. Tightening front upperthumb screw 36′ secures the angular position of front verticaladjustment cylinder 28′; and tightening lower thumb screw 37′ securesthe vertical position of the front vertical adjustment cylinder 28′. Theposition and orientation of lens board 70 (with mounted front lens 72)can be adjusted by tilting, swinging, raising or lowering, shifting, ormicro-focusing the lens board 70 using any combination of the 5-axismovements of front L-frame 34′. In this example, lens board 70 is tiltedupwards around the x-axis. The bottom of front L-frame 34′ is attachedto rotatable and slidable horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74′, which isattached to horizontal guide rail 38.

FIG. 20 is a photograph showing a rear isometric perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter 8 and DSLR camera body 10 (Sony α7II) oriented parallelto the y-axis (portrait orientation), that is rotatably and slidablyattached to an upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame34, with an adjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable andpositionable lens board 70 and front lens 72 and shutter 110 or lens cap(not shown), wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34,respectively, are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,according to the present invention. Tightening front upper thumb screw36 secures the angular position of rear vertical adjustment cylinder 28;and tightening lower thumb screw 37 secures the vertical position of therear vertical adjustment cylinder 28. In this example, camera body 10 istilted downwards around the x-axis. The bottom of rear L-frame 34 isattached to rotatable and slidable horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74,which is attached to horizontal guide rail 38. Guide rail 38 is attachedto tripod 120 (which affords additional degrees of rotation andmovements).

FIG. 21 is a photograph showing an exploded, isometric perspective rearview of a prototype adjustable camera adapter 8 comprising two parts:(1) a multi-position support arc 16, and (2) an un-attached,positionable camera mount 14, according to the present invention.Threaded holes 22, 22′, 24, 24′, 26 and 26′ can be seen in arc 16.Through-holes 54 and 54′ can be seen, along with through-hole 17, inmount 14.

FIG. 22 is a photograph showing a rear isometric perspective view of a50 mm lens 72 mounted in a lens board 70, according to the presentinvention. Also shown is a short section of bellows 78 attached to lensboard 70 with hose clamps 76 and 76′. This non-traditional, wide-anglelens plus lens board combination has been successfully used to makeexcellent photographs with a Horseman “L” 4×5 view camera system 4,according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a photograph showing a front isometric perspective view of a50 mm lens 72 mounted in a lens board 70, according to the presentinvention. This non-traditional, wide-angle lens/lens board combinationhas been successfully used to make excellent photographs with a Horseman“L” 4×5 view camera system 4, according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a photograph showing a front isometric perspective view of a35 mm lens 72 mounted in a lens board 70, according to the presentinvention. This non-traditional, wide-angle lens/lens board combinationhas been successfully used to make excellent photographs with a Horseman“L” 4×5 view camera system 4, according to the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a photograph showing an isometric rear perspective view of aprototype view camera system 4 comprising a multi-position, adjustablecamera adapter 8 and DSLR camera body 10 (Sony α7II) oriented 45° to they-axis (i.e., 45° tilt mode), that is rotatably and slidably attached toa rear upright arm (standard) 30 of an adjustable rear L-frame 34, withan adjustable front L-frame 34′ comprising a tiltable and positionablelens board 70 and front lens 72 and shutter 110 (or lens cap, notshown), wherein both front and rear L-frames 34′ and 34, respectively,are adjustably attached to a horizontal guide rail 38, according to thepresent invention. Front lens 72 is mounted to lens board 70, which isheld by square frame 79 held by front vertical attachment cylinder 28′on a front vertical upright arm 30′ of front L-frame 34′. The positionand orientation of lens board 70 (with mounted front lens 72) can beadjusted by tilting, swinging, raising or lowering, shifting, ormicro-focusing the lens board 70 using any combination of the 5-axismovements of front L-frame 34′. Disposed in-between camera body 10 andlens board 70 is an adjustable, extension bellows 78 that is rotatablyattached to custom-machined, rotatable sealing rings 82 and 82′ (notshown). The proximal and distal ends of bellows 78 are held in placewith hose clamps 76 and 76′, respectively. Bellows 78, in this example,is partially collapsed. The bottom of rear L-frame 34 is attached torotatable and slidable horizontal, adjustment cylinder 74, which isattached to horizontal guide rail 38 (and, likewise, for the frontL-frame 34′). Guide rail 38 is attached to tripod 120 (which affordsadditional degrees of rotation and movements).

FIG. 26 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. Arc 16 comprises a plurality of equal-length, flat insidefacets 180, 180′, etc. on the inside surface 96 of arc 16; and a seriesof flat outside facets 190, 190′, etc. on the outer surface 97 of arc16. The number of inside facets and outside facets can be the same, ordifferent, from each other. In this example, the number of facets is =5,for both the inside and outside surfaces 96 and 97, respectively.Alternatively, the number of facets can range from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or8, in various combinations on inside and outside surfaces 96 and 97,respectively. In this embodiment, support arc 16 approximates a sectorof a circle, having a sector central angle, β, which is less than 180°,but is greater than 90°. Support arc 16 comprises three pairs ofthreaded holes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′, which are orientedperpendicular to the rear face 94 of arc 16. Each pair of threaded holesis spaced apart circumferentially a distance=b, and are located on aninscribed semi-circle with radius=R_(h) (see dashed, semi-circularline). These three pairs of mounting holes allow camera mount 14 to beoptionally mounted in one of three different (i.e., multiple) positions,corresponding to three different camera orientations (portrait, 45°tilted, and landscape). Support arc 16 further comprises four, parallel,horizontal through-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21′″ (which are allunthreaded), and which are oriented substantially perpendicular toinside surface 96 of arc 16.

FIG. 27 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. Arc 16 comprises a plurality of flat inside facets 180, 180′,etc. on the inside surface 96 of arc 16; and a single vertical outsidesurface 200 on the outer surface 97 of arc 16. In this example, thenumber of inside facets is =5 on the inside surface of arc 16.Alternatively, the number of inside facets can range from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, or 8. Support arc 16 further comprises a pair of square-shaped outercorners “B” and “C” that are connected by vertical line segment 200. Inthis embodiment, support arc 16 approximates a sector of a circle,having a sector central angle, β, which is less than 180°, but isgreater than 90°. Support arc 16 comprises three pairs of threadedholes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′, which are oriented perpendicularto the rear face 94 of arc 16. Each pair of threaded holes is spacedapart circumferentially a distance=b, and are located on an inscribedsemi-circle with radius=R_(h) (see dashed semi-circular line). Thesethree pairs of mounting holes allow camera mount 14 to be optionallymounted in one of three different (i.e., multiple) positions,corresponding to three different camera orientations (portrait, 45°tilted, and landscape). Support arc 16 further comprises four, parallel,horizontal through-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21′″ (which are allunthreaded), and which are oriented substantially perpendicular toinside surface 96 of arc 16.

FIG. 28 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. Arc 16 comprises a plurality of flat inside facets 180, 180′,etc. on the inside surface 96 of arc 16; and a single vertical outsidesurface 200 on the outer surface 97 of arc 16. In this example, thenumber of inside facets is =3 on the inside surface of arc 16.Alternatively, the number of inside facets can range from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, or 8. Support arc 16 further comprises a pair of square-shaped outercorners “B” and “C” that are connected by vertical line segment 200. Inthis embodiment, support arc 16 approximates a sector of a circle,having a sector central angle, β, which is less than 180°, but isgreater than 90°. Support arc 16 comprises three pairs of threadedholes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′, which are oriented perpendicularto the rear face 94 of arc 16. Each pair of threaded holes is spacedapart circumferentially a distance=b, and are located on an inscribedsemi-circle with radius=R_(h) (see dashed semi-circular line). Thesethree pairs of mounting holes allow camera mount 14 to be optionallymounted in one of three different (i.e., multiple) positions,corresponding to three different camera orientations (portrait, 45°tilted, and landscape). Support arc 16 further comprises four, parallel,horizontal through-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21′″ (which are allunthreaded), and which are oriented substantially perpendicular toinside surface 96 of arc 16.

FIG. 29 shows an isometric perspective rear view of another embodimentof a C-shaped support arc 16, according to the present invention.Support arc 16 is a sector of a circle, having a sector central angle,β, which is less than 180°, but is greater than 90°. Support arc 16comprises three pairs of threaded holes: 22, 22′; 24, 24′; and 26, 26′,which are oriented perpendicular to the rear face 94 of arc 16. Thesemounting holes allows camera mount 14 to be optionally mounted in one ofthree different multiple positions, corresponding to three differentcamera orientations (portrait, 45° tilted, and landscape). Support arc16 further comprises a vertical flat portion 20 centered at a horizontalline that bisects arc 16. The flat portion 20 comprises four, parallel,horizontal through-holes 21, 21′, 21″, and 21′″ (which are orientedperpendicular to inner diameter surface 96 of arc 16) for holding fourcap-head bolts 40, 40′, 40″, and 40′″ (not shown), that are received bythreaded holes 92, 92′, 92″, 92′″ (not shown), respectively, inadjustment cylinder 28 (not shown). Support arc 16 further comprises acontinuously-adjustable, rotatable arc segment 210 that rotates aboutthe z-axis by sliding in a dovetail or T-slot type joint, which is heldby a fixed, racetrack arc segment 220 (a dovetail joint is shown in FIG.29). The rotatable arc segment 210 can be secured at a selected, fixedcircumferential position by, for example, a thumb screw (not shown).Alternatively, arc 16 could have a T-slot, or complementary grooves onboth sides, or a raised ridge, or even rack and pinion gearing (notillustrated).

FIG. 30 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. The radius, R_(h), of the set of six threaded holes (holes#1-6) is defined by equation (1), as follows:R _(h) ≥c+18  (1)where, R_(h) and c are measured in mm. The dimension “c” is the diagonaldistance of camera body 10, as measured from the geometrical center “S”of sensor chip 12. The circumferential angular locations of threadedholes #1-6 are constrained by two general equations that relate the fourcircumferential angles: β, ψ, θ, and ϕ (as measured in degrees). Inequation (2), the sum of all of the angles over an entire sector mustequal the sector's central angle, β, as follows:2ψ+3θ+2ϕ=β  (2).In equation (3), the sum of the interior circumferential angular spacing(θ) between two pairs of holes (holes #1 and #2, for example) plus theadjacent circumferential angular spacing (ϕ) between adjacent pairs ofholes (holes #2 and #3, for example) must always equal 45°, as definedby equation (3):θ+ϕ=45°  (3).Angular constraint equation (3) is a necessary requirement to constraincamera mount 14 to be parallel to the horizontal x-axis when camera body10 is positioned in the horizontal (landscape) position (as compared tomounting camera body 10 in the vertical (portrait) position).Additionally, constraint equation (3) is required to constrain cameramount 14 when tilted at 45° (i.e., when placed in the middle pairs ofholes #3 and #4). In this example, the sector central angle, β=136°, andthe circumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=7°.The remaining angles are θ=32° and ϕ=13° (which sum to) 45°. Thesespecific angles satisfy equations (2) and (3). The inner radius, R_(i),and the outer radius, R_(o), of arc 16 are not shown in this example.

FIG. 31 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. In this example, the sector central angle, β=136°, and thecircumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=7°. Theremaining angles are θ=32° and ϕ=13° (which sum to 45°). Vertical flat20 is shown. The inner radius, R_(i), and the outer radius, R_(o), ofarc 16 are identified in this example.

FIG. 32 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. Camera body 10 is mounted in the vertical(portrait) orientation using holes #1 and #2. Vertical flat 20 is shown.In this example, the sector central angle, β=136°, and thecircumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=7°. Theremaining angles are θ=32° and ϕ=13° (which sum to 45°).

FIG. 33 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. Camera body 10 is mounted in the 45° tiltedorientation using holes #3 and #4. Vertical flat 20 is shown. In thisexample, the sector central angle, β=136°, and the circumferentialangular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=7°. The remaining anglesare θ=32° and ϕ=13° (which sum to 45°).

FIG. 34 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. Camera body 10 is mounted in the horizontal(landscape) orientation using holes #5 and #6. Vertical flat 20 isshown. In this example, the sector central angle, β=136°, and thecircumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=7°. Theremaining angles are θ=32° and ϕ=13° (which sum to 45°).

FIG. 35 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. In this example, the sector central angle, β=130°, and thecircumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=5°. Theremaining angles are: θ=30° and ϕ=15° (which sum to 45°). These specificangles satisfy equations (2) and (3). Note: the inner radius, R_(i), andthe outer radius, R_(o), of arc 16 are not shown in this example

FIG. 36 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16 and removable camera body 10, according to the presentinvention. In this example, the sector central angle, β=136°, and thecircumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole #1), ψ=8°. Theremaining angles are θ=30° and ϕ=15° (which sum to 45°). These specificangles satisfy equations (2) and (3). The inner radius, R_(i), and theouter radius, R_(o), of arc 16 are identified in this example.

FIG. 37 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. Camera body 10 is mounted in the vertical(portrait) orientation using holes #1 and #2. Vertical flat 20 is shown.

FIG. 38 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. Camera body 10 is mounted in the horizontal(landscape) orientation using holes #5 and #6. Vertical flat 20 isshown.

FIG. 39A shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of aC-shaped support arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention. In this example, the sector centralangle, β=134°, and the circumferential angular offset for the first hole(hole #1), ψ=17°. The remaining angles are θ=10° and ϕ=35° (which sum to45°). These specific angles satisfy equations (2) and (3). The smalldistance, b, between any given pairs of holes (e.g., holes #1 and #2) inthis example makes the camera mount 14 less stiff when attached to arc16 than the examples shown previously in FIGS. 30-38. The inner radius,R_(i), and the outer radius, R_(o), of arc 16 are not identified in thisexample.

FIG. 39B shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of aC-shaped support arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10,according to the present invention. Camera mount 14 with mounted camerabody 10 are both positioned horizontally in a landscape orientationusing holes #5 and #6.

FIG. 40 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. In this example, the sector central angle,β=135°, and the circumferential angular offset for the first hole (hole#1), ψ=11.25°. The remaining angles are θ=22.5° and ϕ=22.5° (which sumup to 45°). These specific angles satisfy equations (2) and (3). Notethat holes #1-6 are evenly spaced apart circumferentially (i.e., because0=ϕ in this example). Note also that 2ψ=22.5°, which is the same angleas θ and ϕ in this example (e.g., when β=135°). Note also that the innerradius, R_(i), and the outer radius, R_(o), of arc 16 are identified inthis example. Note also that when θ=ϕ=22.5°, and ψ and β are unknownangles, it follows that equation (2) simplifies into equation (4) asfollows:2ψ+112.5=β  (4).

FIG. 41 shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a C-shapedsupport arc 16, camera mount 14, and removable camera body 10, accordingto the present invention. Camera body 10 is mounted in the horizontal(landscape) orientation using holes #5 and #6. Vertical flat 20 isshown. Note also that the inner radius, R_(i), and the outer radius,R_(o), of arc 16 are not identified in this example.

FIG. 42A shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8and removable camera body 10 oriented at γ=56° to the horizontal x-axis(i.e., maximum-vertical mode), according to the present invention. Whensensor chip 12 is oriented at γ=56° to the horizontal x-axis, a verticaldiagonal (i.e., line “m-n”) that cuts vertically across the sensormaximizes the sensor's exposure to images aligned in the verticaldirection (e.g., the Washington Monument). This angular orientation(γ=56°) puts the longest diagonal length=43.27 mm of a 24×36 mm DSLRsensor 12 exactly on the Y-axis without having to tilt the tripod 12degrees more from 45 degrees and then having to deal with any resultingyaw angle.

FIG. 42B shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8oriented at γ=56° to the horizontal x-axis (i.e., maximum-verticalmode), according to the present invention.

FIG. 42C shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6, according to the present invention. Additional threadedmounting holes 300 and 300′ are shown, which correspond to γ=56°orientation of mount 14.

FIG. 43A shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8and removable camera body 10 oriented at γ=34° to the horizontal x-axis(i.e., maximum-horizontal mode), according to the present invention.When sensor chip 12 is oriented at γ=34° to the horizontal x-axis, ahorizontal diagonal (i.e., line “o-p”) that cuts horizontally across thesensor maximizes the sensor's exposure to images aligned in thehorizontal direction (e.g., horizon, lakeshores). This angularorientation (γ=34°) puts the longest diagonal length=43.27 mm of a 24×36mm DSLR sensor 12 exactly on the X-axis without having to tilt thetripod 12 degrees more from 45 degrees and then having to deal with anyresulting yaw angle.

FIG. 43B shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6 comprising a multi-position camera adapter assembly 8oriented at γ=34° to the horizontal x-axis (i.e., maximum-horizontalmode), according to the present invention.

FIG. 43C shows an elevation rear view of another embodiment of a viewcamera system 6, according to the present invention. Threaded mountingholes 402 and 402′ are shown, which correspond to γ=34° orientation ofmount 14.

Note that in all of the embodiments of view camera systems disclosedherein that the camera mount 14 and/or support arc 16 can be configured(i.e., machined) by cutting slot(s), hole(s), or other openings suchthat mount 14 and/or arc 16 do not interfere with, or block access to,any items that protrude from camera body 10, such as: electroniccable(s), battery compartment door(s), or memory card door(s).

Note that support arc 16 can be easily flipped 180° about the x-axis.Also, the rear L-frame 34 can be rotated 180° about the y-axis to putthe upright vertical arm (standard) 30 on the East side; and arc 16 canbe rotated 180° about the x-axis to position screw hole 26′ at the top.In this way, sensor 12 of camera body 10 can have the same distance fromthe lens board 70 along the z-axis as compared to the original (first)embodiment.

Note also that camera mount 14 can be manufactured as a mirror-image ofitself (i.e., a “left-handed” version, as compared to the original“right-handed” version), which would allow the upright rear vertical arm(standard) 30 to be rotated 180° about the y-axis, thereby placing thecamera body 10 on the East side of the view camera system 4, while stillproperly facing camera body 10 (i.e., sensor 12) towards the frontstandard 34′ and front lens 72.

Another embodiment of the present invention is as a modular system. Thecamera body 10, bellows 78, hose clamps 76 & 76′, sealing rings 82 &82′, front lens board 70, and front lens 72 can be easily switched outas a single module for a different body/bellows/lens module with a fewquick movements: unplug the cables, loosen the thumb screw, and unsnapthe lens board. It is similar to changing lenses on an SLR camera,except that it's better because a different camera body 10 (assumingroughly the same dimensions) can have a different sensor better suitedto the lens to be put into use, i.e., a coarse-grain sensor 12 versus afine-grain sensor 12.

FIG. 44 shows an elevation side perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention. View camerasystem 3 was made by a Swiss company “Sinar”, and has 5-axis movementsthat allow for tilt, swing, rise and fall, shift, and micro-focusadjustments. Camera system 3 comprises a DSLR camera body 10 attached tocamera mount 14 using thumb screw 18. Mount 14 is attached to supportarc 16, which is attached to rear mounting block 99 of view camera 3.Support arc 16 is oriented horizontally, so that flat segment 20 restshorizontally flat against the top of rear mounting block 99. Camera body10 is oriented in the vertical (i.e., Portrait) orientation in thisexample. Camera body 10 is connected to front lens board 70 throughflexible bellows 78. Front lens board 70 (which is held by outer frame79) holds shutter 110 and front lens 72. Horizontal guide tube 38 (notshown) allows the distance between the front and rear mounting blocks 99and 99′, respectively, to be adjusted.

FIG. 45 shows an elevation rear perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention. View camerasystem 3 was made by a Swiss company “Sinar”, and has 5-axis movementsthat allow for tilt, swing, rise and fall, shift, and micro-focusadjustments. Camera system 3 comprises a DSLR camera body 10 (not shown)attached to camera mount 14 using thumb screw 18, and mount 14 isattached to support arc 16, which is attached to rear mounting block 99of view camera 3. Support arc 16 is oriented horizontally, so that flatsegment 20 rests horizontally flat against the top of rear mountingblock 99. Horizontal guide tube 38 allows the distance between the frontand rear mounting blocks 99 and 99′, respectively to be adjusted.

FIG. 46 shows an elevation side perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention. View camerasystem 3 was made by a Swiss company “Sinar”, and has 5-axis movementsthat allow for tilt, swing, rise and fall, shift, and micro-focusadjustments. Camera system 3 comprises a DSLR camera body 10 attached tocamera mount 14 using thumb screw 18, wherein mount 14 is attached tosupport arc 16, which is attached to rear mounting block 99 of viewcamera 3. Support arc 16 is oriented horizontally, so that flat segment20 rests horizontally flat against the top of rear mounting block 99.Camera body 10 is oriented in the vertical (i.e., Portrait) orientationin this example. Camera body 10 is connected to front lens board 70 withflexible bellows 78. Front lens board 70 (which is held by outer frame79) holds shutter 110 and front lens 72. Hose clamps 76 and 76′ attachthe ends of bellows 78 to camera body 10 and front lens board 70,respectively. Horizontal guide tube 38 allows the distance between thefront and rear mounting blocks 99 and 99′, respectively to be adjusted.

FIG. 47 shows an elevation rear perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 3, according to the present invention. View camerasystem 3 was made by a Swiss company “Sinar”, and has 5-axis movementsthat allow for tilt, swing, rise and fall, shift, and micro-focusadjustments. Camera system 3 comprises a DSLR camera body 10 attached tocamera mount 14 using thumb screw 18, wherein mount 14 is attached tosupport arc 16, which is attached to rear mounting block 99 of viewcamera 3. Support arc 16 is oriented horizontally, so that flat segment20 rests horizontally flat against the top of rear mounting block 99.Camera body 10 is oriented in the vertical (i.e., Portrait) orientationin this example. Camera body 10 is connected to front lens board 70 withflexible bellows 78. Front lens board 70 is held by outer frame 79.Horizontal guide tube 38 allows the distance between the front and rearmounting blocks 99 and 99′, respectively to be adjusted.

FIG. 48 shows a front elevation perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 2, according to the present invention. The viewcamera system 2 comprises a wooden rectangular rear frame 34 and woodenrectangular front frame 34′ attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,where the distance between the front and rear frames 34′ and 34,respectively, is adjustable. This antique camera (originally called a“field camera”) was made by the Burke and James Company in the timeframe of 1910 to 1940. The front frame 34′ holds a tiltable front frame79 that holds a front lens board 70 with mounted front lens 72.

FIG. 49 shows a rear elevation perspective view of an embodiment of aview camera system 2, according to the present invention. The viewcamera system 2 comprises a wooden rectangular rear frame 34 and woodenrectangular front frame 34′ attached to a horizontal guide rail 38,where the distance between the front and rear frames 34′ and 34,respectively, is adjustable. This antique camera (originally called a“field camera”) was made by Burke and James in the time frame of 1910 to1940. The support arc 16 with attached camera mount 14 is shown restingin a horizontal orientation on the bottom arm of rear frame 34. In thisexample, camera body 10 is oriented at 45° to the horizontal axis; andcamera body 10 is a Canon 1Ds-II DLSR.

What is claimed is:
 1. An adjustable, multi-position camera adapterassembly comprising: a C-shaped support arc; and a L-shaped,cantilevered camera mount removably attached to the arc; wherein thesupport arc further comprises a flat vertical portion disposed on anouter radius, R_(o), of the arc, that is centered vertically along ahorizontal line that bisects the arc.
 2. The camera adapter assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the support arc comprises a semi-circular sector of acircle, with a sector central angle, β, that is greater than 90° and isless than 180°.
 3. The camera adapter assembly of claim 1, wherein thesupport arc further comprises a plurality of parallel, horizontal,through-holes disposed through the arc, which penetrate through the flatvertical portion of the arc.
 4. The camera adapter assembly of claim 1,wherein the camera mount comprises an outer curved portion at a proximalend of the mount that has an outer radius=R_(b); and wherein the mountfurther comprises an inner curved side portion that has a smaller radiusof curvature=R_(s), wherein R_(s)<R_(b).
 5. The camera adapter assemblyof claim 1, wherein the support arc comprises a C-shaped flat plate withtwo, outer square corners; and the plate further comprises asemi-cylindrical, inner surface with an inner radius=R_(i).
 6. Thecamera adapter assembly of claim 1, wherein the support arc comprises arotatable curved member slidingly mounted to a fixed curved member;wherein the arc has a continuously-adjustable angle of orientation. 7.The camera adapter assembly of claim 6, wherein the rotatable curvedmember is slidingly mounted to the fixed curved member with a dovetailor T-slot joint.
 8. The camera adapter assembly of claim 1, wherein thesupport arc comprises a plurality of equal-length, flat facets disposedon an inside surface of the arc.
 9. The camera adapter assembly of claim1, wherein the camera mount comprises a rear face plate that contains apair of coincident through-holes, and an integral base plate that isoriented at 90° to the rear face plate; wherein the base plate comprisesa through-hole for holding a threaded shaft of a removable tripod thumbscrew.
 10. The camera adaptor assembly of claim 1, further comprising acamera body directly attached to a cantilevered base portion of thecamera mount with a tripod thumb screw.
 11. The camera adapter assemblyof claim 10, wherein the support arc comprises three pairs of threadedmounting holes (holes #1-2, #3-4, and #5-6), that are orientedperpendicular to a rear face of the arc; wherein each pair of holes(holes #1-2; #3-4; and #5-6) are spaced apart by a same distance=b; andwherein the camera mount is attached to the support arc with a pair ofmachine screws that screw into a selected one pair of the three pairs ofthreaded mounting holes.
 12. The camera adapter assembly of claim 11,wherein the pair of machine screws are disposed through a pair ofcoincident through-holes disposed at a proximal end of the camera mount.13. The camera adapter assembly of claim 11, wherein the three pairs ofthreaded mounting holes (holes #1-2; #3-4; and #5-6) are all radiallypositioned at a same radius=R_(h) from the geometric center, S, of themulti-pixel sensor chip.
 14. The camera adapter assembly of claim 13,wherein the radius=R_(h) of each of the six threaded mounting holes(holes #1-6) is defined by the following equation:R _(h) ≥c+18; where c=diagonal dimension of the camera body as measuredfrom the geometric center, S, of the multi-pixel sensor chip to a cornerof the camera body; and wherein R_(h) and c are measured in mm.
 15. Thecamera adapter assembly of claim 11, wherein the three pairs of threadedmounting holes (holes #1-2; #3-4; and #5-6) are all positioned with aninterior circumferential angular spacing, θ, that is the same for eachpair of threaded holes; and wherein the angle θ has an origin at thegeometric center, S, of the multi-pixel sensor chip.
 16. The cameraadapter assembly of claim 15, wherein adjacent pairs of threadedmounting holes (holes #2-3 and #4-5) are all positioned with an adjacentcircumferential angular spacing, ϕ, that is less than or equal to theinterior circumferential angular spacing, θ and wherein the angle ϕ hasan origin at the geometric center, S, of the multi-pixel sensor chip.17. The camera adapter assembly of claim 16, wherein the adjacentcircumferential angular spacing, ϕ, and the interior circumferentialangular spacing, θ, are related by the following two equations, whereβ=a sector central angle, and ψ=a circumferential angular offset for afirst threaded hole (#1), as follows:2ψ+3θ+2ϕ=β; andθ+ϕ=45°; wherein all of the angles are measured in degrees.
 18. Thecamera adapter assembly of claim 17, wherein θ=ϕ=22.5°; and ψ is relatedto β by the following equation:2ψ+112.5=β; wherein all of the angles are measured in degrees.
 19. Thecamera adapter assembly of claim 10, wherein the camera body comprises amulti-pixel sensor chip with a geometric center, S; and wherein an outerradius, R_(b), of the camera mount has an origin that is located at thegeometric center, S.
 20. The camera adapter assembly of claim 19,wherein an inner radius=R_(i) of the support arc is greater than adiagonal dimension “c” of the camera body, as measured from thegeometric center, S, of the multi-pixel sensor.
 21. An adjustable,multi-position camera adapter assembly comprising: a C-shaped supportarc; and a L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount removably attached to thearc; wherein the support arc comprises three pairs of threaded mountingholes (holes #1-2, #3-4, and #5-6), that are oriented perpendicular to arear face of the arc; wherein each pair of holes (holes #1-2; #3-4; and#5-6) are spaced apart by a same distance=b; and wherein the cameramount is attached to the support arc with a pair of machine screws thatscrew into a selected one pair of the three pairs of threaded mountingholes.
 22. A camera adapter kit, comprising: a C-shaped support arcportion; and a L-shaped, cantilevered camera mount portion; wherein thesupport arc further comprises a flat vertical portion disposed on anouter radius, R_(o), of the arc, that is centered vertically along ahorizontal line that bisects the arc.